This ministry is dedicated in loving memory to our dear friend, Louisa Ashton. Louisa had no children but had many spiritual children. She dedicated much of her life to supporting marriage, family and life. She loved babies and had a way of putting them to sleep in her arms. We entrust our little ones to her loving care and pray for the repose of her soul and theirs.
Anima Women’s Network has been actively supporting, educating and encouraging Catholic women in Australia for over two decades. In recent years, a small committee of Anima Women have been praying about a new ministry which we feel is greatly needed here in Australia. A ministry dedicated to helping families, especially Catholic parents, who are or who have experienced the loss of a child, either in utero, at birth or shortly after birth. Each of the members of the committee have ourselves experienced a loss and while every loss is different, wish to help others who are going through similar situations so that no couple feels alone. Each of us found support overseas, very few, found anything here in Australia. We also recognise the hidden grief and loss associated with infertility and that there is again little support for couples in Australia who are carrying the cross of fertility difficulties, with or without pregnancy loss. This ministry aims to change that.
We are deeply sorry that the experience of baby loss, either your own baby or that of someone you care about, or infertility has brought you here. We also know the heartbreak, confusion, isolation, emotional and practical complexities that can accompany the process of navigating such losses. We hope that the information and guidance offered through this ministry can in some way support you through this difficult time and bring you some comfort and connection whether through spiritual, emotional or practical support and information.
While there are now a number of organisations in Australia providing support for miscarriage and infant loss, until now there has been no Catholic ministry dedicated to supporting families through such losses. This ministry aims to provide information and support from a Catholic perspective, however, we welcome anyone who may benefit from the resources provided here.
Please know that we see your grief, we are praying for you and be assured that you are not alone.
If you would like to join us in some way or if you have any questions please get in touch.
Disclaimer- The advice and information on this website is general in nature and your personal experience of miscarriage and loss may be different. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical and psychological advice. Please see your health care professional for appropriate and specific advice and treatment. We have consulted holy priests, medical practitioners and Catholic ethicists to ensure that the information is accurate and in accordance with Catholic teaching. If there are errors in our information, please respectfully let us know.
