“A society without mothers would be a dehumanized society, for mothers are always, even in the worst moments, witnesses of tenderness, dedication and moral strength….Dearest mothers, thank you, thank you for what you are in your family and for what you give to the Church and the world.”
-Pope Francis
This Sunday, the second Sunday of May, marks Mother’s Day in many countries around the world.
As we celebrate this special day, let us honor both the women who have given us life and those who have taken on the important role of mother.
We often hear from our Mission Partners (Bishops, Religious, Hospital Administrators, and Staff) requesting doctors that are trained in maternal health, or the health of women during pregnancy, childbirth, and the postnatal period. 1
According to the World Health Organization, “Although important progress has been made in the last two decades, about 287,000 women died during and following pregnancy and childbirth in 2020. This number is unacceptably high.”1
We believe that women and mothers around the world should receive compassionate healthcare ensuring both they and their babies have a bright future.
And, we know you believe that too! Your support of Mission Doctors helps more doctors answer the call to serve these mothers and their children!
Happy Mother’s Day to all mothers, may this day be a time to celebrate your gifts and what you have given to the children in your care. May this day be a day to pause and honor the nurturing, the listening, guiding, teaching that are more than mere tasks. Your love through good times and bad is the gift that can change the world.
Happy Mother’s Day also to all who have taken on a maternal role for those needing this support. Grandmothers, Aunts, friends – as you selflessly are present for the child, or young adult who needs your love, may today also provide a day that you are honored for what you give so lovingly.
Mother’s Day Prayer
“I thank you, Creator of us all, for my mother. I thank you that she gave me life and nurtured me all those years. She gave me my faith, helping me to know you and to know Jesus and his ways. She taught me how to love and how to sacrifice for others. She taught me that it was okay to cry and that I should always tell the truth. Bless her with the graces she needs and which you want to give her today. Help her to feel precious in your eyes today and to know that I love her. Give her strength and courage, compassion and peace. Bless her this day with your love.” Amen.
This prayer was taken from prayers for and by mothers on Creighton University’s Online Ministries. This website and the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops offer prayers for mothers struggling through a variety of challenges as well as blessings.