Before she died in 2022, pro-life advocate Deirdre McQuade began — but would not complete — a photo journal on the joys and sorrows borne by Catholic women through the ages. A newly published book featuring contributions from local Catholic women made McQuade’s vision a reality.
“The Eighth Station,” authored by Deirdre McQuade and friends, was published Sept. 1 by Via Crucis Press. It features more than 70 images from churches, including one from Nativity Catholic Church in Burke, illustrating 21 reflections written by women on the meaning of the Eighth Station of the cross, where Jesus speaks to the women, and how he continues to greet women today.
McQuade was a pro-life spokeswoman for the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, speaker and counselor for women in crisis pregnancies. All net proceeds from the book will benefit the Sisters of Life. Upon her death from metastatic breast cancer in 2022, McQuade’s family encouraged donations to the organization in her honor.
Contributors to the book from the Arlington diocese include Elizabeth Leon, author of “Let Yourself Be Loved: Big Lessons from a Little Life” and a parishioner of St. Theresa Church in Ashburn, who also works with Red Bird Ministries for families of child loss; Anne Miller, a singer, musician, and parishioner of St. Theresa, where she directs multiple choirs; and Lynda Rozell, a parishioner of St. Leo the Great Church in Fairfax and author of “Return to Me: Visits to the Tabernacle.”
Christopher J. Mooney, who assembled and edited the book, said that he hopes the photo journal “illuminates the comforting presence and attention of Jesus for all, whether students, lonely parishioners needing a warm touch or women facing crisis pregnancies.”
