Day 43 - Mother's Day

Today was/is Mother's Day.  A day to honor, remember, and appreciate our mothers and those who have shown us motherly love.  Motherhood extends far beyond those that physically brought us into this world.  It extends to all those who have guided us and nurtured our lives within this world.

I was recently shown a blog post that was an open letter to pastors.  It addressed the issue of Sunday morning church when the mothers are given a blessing (usually as they stand).  The author felt particularly uncomfortable and angry when she could not stand.  So she wrote the following reflection for pastors to consider:

http://www.messymiddle.com/2012/05/10/an-open-letter-to-pastors-a-non-mom-speaks-about-mothers-day/

Since I had recently read this blog, I wondered what today's Mass would be like.  There would be plenty of mothers there, certainly.  Would they give flowers to the mothers like they used to do at my hometown parish?  Would there be a standing blessing?  Would he say anything?  Would the homily be about mothers?  After all, the parish is named after the Mother of Jesus!

No mention was made except during the prayers of intention.  And then at the end.  He made an excellent point of being very inclusive of those mothers and those that give motherly love.  And gifts were given out in the gathering space after Mass was 100% over to pretty much any female that showed an indication of wanting one.  They were magnets with a blessing for daughters of God.

I thought that the way the priest and parish handled Mothers' Day was quite respectful and inclusive.

I do get slightly perturbed at people who believe no blessing should be given at church to Mothers or Fathers or Grandparents or whomever on their respectful days.  It's not just a blessing for those physically there but also for those held in our hearts.  That extends to the mystical nature of the Catholic Church (an entire blog altogether!).  We don't believe we are singular in the celebration of Mass.  Those in our hearts and thoughts are with us there as well.

So on this Mother's Day, blessings are extended to mothers, grandmothers, godmothers, aunts, aunties, and any and all women who show motherly love to others.  May understanding and strength continue to be your blessings.

Cheers,
Megs