Each May, we take time to prayerfully celebrate Mother’s Day, and honor the special women who bear or raise children. Mothers share uniquely in the creative, life-giving work of God. In the vocation of motherhood, women provide the nurturing, sacrificial love that is the beating heart of the home. God showers mothers with abundant graces to fulfill their many obligations.
We also honor Mary, the mother of Jesus, during this month. We recall her humble submission to the will of God. In giving Mary to the Church, Jesus spiritually unites Mary to each mother as a model of humility, peace and grace.
Throughout every stage of motherhood, you are living through exhausting yet joyful days as you care for and support your children in countless ways. Despite the challenges, know that you are nurturing your children in the schoolhouse of love. Time will fly by! Pray for the grace and wisdom to persist through the difficulties and enjoy the moments that will fade quickly.
As your children grow, you are guiding them as they make crucial life decisions: choosing good friends, laying a foundation for their future through school and activities, using their time, talents and resources, and discerning their own vocations. If your children have wandered from the practice of the faith, continue to love and encourage them, trusting that the seeds of faith you planted will bear fruit at a time you least expect. Do not allow any concerns about your children to lead you to despair, but pray for them daily, entrusting them to the protection of our Blessed Mother. God will answer your prayers and give your children the grace to grow in wisdom and truth.
To those of us whose mothers have passed from this life, I understand the sorrow you endure. Take heart. Our mothers are not beyond our prayers! United with God in heaven, mothers are intercessors for our needs and continue to watch over us.
We treasure and love our mothers, God’s special gift to us. May our Blessed Mother guide them, and may our good Lord bless them, now and always. Happy Mother’s Day!
