Reflections on Faith 

Week 3. 

As we move throughout week 3, Mother's Day is approaching on Sunday 9th May.  Moving towards this special day, we acknowledge and celebrate mothers and mothering; making this distinction because many people – aunts, step parents, close family friends, dads – fulfill the chief mothering role in families.

Mary, the Mother of God, is an outstanding pillar of grace, strength and inspiration for all. She gave birth to baby Jesus in the most difficult of circumstances, risking her own life to bring the son of God into the world, then raised him, and later watched Him die.

On Mother’s Day we honor those who fulfill the role of Mary, showing care, concern, nurturing, and compassion, often at great personal sacrifice. They will always be in our prayers. For those whose mothers and grandmothers are still alive - cherish them today. Hug and kiss them. Honor them. Thank them. For those whose mothers have gone home to the Lord, remember them.

Good and Gentle God,

We pray in gratitude for our mothers and for all the women of theory who have joined with you in the wonder of bringing forth new life. You who became human through a woman, grant to all mothers the courage they need to face the uncertain future that life with children always brings. 

Give them the strength to live and to be loved in return, not perfectly, but humanly.

Give them the faithful support of husband, family and friends as they care for the physical and spiritual growth of their children.

Give them joy and delight in their children to sustain them through the trials of motherhood. 

Most of all, give them the wisdom to turn to you for help when they need it most.

Amen