Elizabeth, the mother-to-be of John the Baptist, is delighted at the news that Mary is pregnant too.
Similarly, the news that the Duchess of Cambridge, Catherine, too is pregnant, became news that the world needed to shout about. The joy of something miraculous, the creation of new life.
New life becomes new beginnings, a new journey.
Give thanks to all mothers who have given us all new beginnings and set us on our journey.
O Radiant Dawn, splendour of eternal light, sun of justice: come, shine on those who dwell in darkness and the shadow of death.