In Her Image: Effect of a Personal Relationship with Heavenly Mother on Self-Worth in Motherhood

Doctoral Dissertation Project Summary by Katarina Connery | KConnery@wfwp.us

Abstract

This dissertation project explores whether deepening a connection to God’s motherly love—expressed through the nurturing presence of “Heavenly Mother”—can help mothers of young children enhance their sense of self-worth. At the heart of the project, 30 mothers of children ages 9 and younger worked through a 40-day spiritual practice journal rooted in the metaphor of growing within God’s “womb” as a beloved child—the journal was created to guide participants in creating a sacred space to reflect on what they are receiving, developing, and embodying through that connection with Heavenly Mother. Participants’ experiences were evaluated through pre- and post-project surveys and qualitative reflections. Key measures included self-compassion, daily spiritual experiences, confidence in motherhood, and perceptions and connections to God’s maternal nature. Findings revealed a significant increase in participants’ sense of self-worth and spiritual intimacy, with many describing a renewed sense of identity and purpose rooted in their experience of being spiritually “carried” and shaped by God. This project highlights the transformative potential of engaging maternal imagery in spiritual practices, particularly for women seeking healing, affirmation, and a deeper sense of divine connection.