When You’re Too Tired to Pray: A New Dad’s Honest Question (Marriage Unhindered)

Nicholas just became a new dad and he’s already feeling what so many couples discover fast: the baby gets your best hours, and your spiritual life gets what’s left. On Marriage Unhindered, Doug Hinderer and Dr. Mario Sacasa offer a grace-filled plan for staying close to God (and each other) in the exhausting newborn season. Nicholas works long, physical days. By the time he gets home, showers, helps with dinner, bath time, and cleanup, he and his wife are spent. He asks how they can make space for personal prayer and prayer together without fostering resentment. Dr. Mario starts with reassurance: this season is intense, and the Lord knows that. Fatherhood changes your schedule, and “your time is not your own right now.” Instead of trying to force an old routine, he urges Nicholas and his wife to have an honest conversation about exhaustion, shared responsibilities, and what prayer can realistically look like now. That might mean praying on the drive to work, turning off the radio for a Rosary or a simple meditation, or ending the night with one small prayer together, even just a Hail Mary. Doug adds that it’s normal for marital satisfaction to dip after a first baby because of fatigue, stress, and less couple time. His remedy is a “1% daily investment”, about 15 minutes (or 10, or 5), to connect, talk, and show affection. He also suggests weaving prayer into daily life: while mom nurses or bathes the baby, dad can pray the Rosary nearby. And when possible, get a babysitter so the couple can come up for air. Nicholas shares they’re also entering the Church and preparing for Confirmation and First Communion. The takeaway: don't give up, have an honest conversation about adjusting, and lead with grace. The best way to listen to the Best of the Week is on our #1 Free Catholic App. It’s free, and always will be! To get and share the Relevant Radio app, check it out here.