May 12, 2024, 12:00 PM
On Mother's Day we honor the mother of the family, as well as motherhood, maternal bonds, and the influence of mothers in society. This tradition dates back thousands of years to fertility rituals and festivals dedicated to celebrating mother-like deities and Mother Nature. In 1914, President Wilson signed a proclamation designating the second Sunday of May as Mother's Day. Today, there are an estimated 2 billion mothers in the world with over 85 million mothers in the U.S. We thank mothers for their love, support, and, quite simply, for being mothers. Many people give cards, flowers, candy, a meal, or other gifts to their mother and mother figures, including grandmothers, great-grandmothers, stepmothers, foster mothers, and mothers-in-law.
The Church has a deep love and devotion for all mothers. Motherhood is the recognition of life. A man and woman come together to image God by bringing forth life. We celebrate the Feasts of Mary, Mother of God, the Immaculate Conception, the Birth of Mary, and the Assumption. We show our love and devotion through prayers such as the rosary, dedications to Our Lady, and many devotions. Our recognition of the Virgin Mary as the Mother of God is our celebration of all motherhood. In the Church we also recognize the importance of putting our faith into action. We encourage all to take the opportunity today to do something charitable for mothers, to recognize and thank God, and mothers, for the gift of life, and to speak with the Blessed Virgin Mary. Through the intercession of the Virgin Mother, we pray that all mothers have a blessed Mother’s Day. Now you know!
