Infertility and miscarriage are deeply personal struggles that many couples face, often accompanied by feelings of isolation and grief. In the latest episode of the “Ready, Willing, & Able” podcast, host Genevieve Anatalio engages in a heartfelt conversation with Ann Koshute, co-founder of the Springs in the Desert ministry of accompaniment for infertility and loss, about navigating these experiences through a lens of faith.
In the episode, Koshute reflects on the spiritual dimensions of infertility, emphasizing that while medical solutions are often the focus, the emotional and spiritual toll can be profound. She candidly shares her own experience with infertility in her 15 years of marriage. Anatalio and Koshute discuss the Catholic teaching of fruitfulness in marriage, exploring how couples can find meaning and purpose even when biological children are not part of their journey.
The episode also addresses the mystery of suffering, grieving a miscarriage, accompanying others who struggle with infertility and loss, and discerning medical interventions with genuine surrender to God’s will. Koshute encourages couples to embrace the unknown, trusting in God's faithfulness despite the pain they may endure.
Listen to “Finding Hope Amidst Infertility and Loss” on the “Ready, Willing, & Able” website or search for it on your favorite streaming service.
Over the course of the episode, Koshute recommends several ministries and resources to couples struggling with infertility and loss.
- Springs in the Desert — Koshute’s own organization, which offers Catholic accompaniment and resources for couples facing infertility, plus support for pastors and loved ones. They also offer a digital toolkit.
- “Scripture and Saints for the Path of Infertility” — a 15-episode podcast series hosted by Springs in the Desert in collaboration with Ascension, which also features an accompanying novena.
- Redbird Ministries — a nonprofit Catholic ministry of grief and loss support, including for miscarriage.
- We Carry You Still — a ministry of miscarriage and loss support, based in Phoenix, Ariz. but able to support those across the country.
- The National Catholic Bioethics Center — a resource which offers guidance on Catholic bioethics and fertility-related decisions.
Those struggling with infertility and loss can also turn to the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, the Catechism of the Catholic Church, a priest or trusted spiritual advisor, a counselor, and other trusted loved ones.
Couples walking the path of infertility and loss are not alone. Our Church offers support. Most importantly, the God who knows each and every one of His children before He forms them in the womb has a loving plan for all people and all families.
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