May 8.    On this day Fr Peter decided to link all the themes for the day in his homily. He asked, “how many of you have ever met a shepherd?  How many of you have been one?  In an urban setting it isn’t likely that many have, but in a rural setting many men will have been herdboys and many young boys are still caring for sheep and cattle.  In some countries women and girls have that task too. Sheep stealing is still a problem and who would be willing to die for their sheep? But maybe many of us would be more devoted to a cat or a dog.  That is the kind of love Jesus expressed and showed for those he loved. More than anyone else in a family, caring for another person to such an extent is truly a mother’s natural maternal vocation. How many mothers wouldn’t die for their children? But mothers need protection too.  Are they being cared for and protected by others in their families?  

Reflect, share and act. Scripture. These are they who have come out of the great tribulation, they have washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb. They are before the throne of God and serve him day and night and he will shelter them with his presence. And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes.”  Pope Francis: Mothers are the strongest antidote to the spread of self-centred individualism.  It is they who testify to the beauty of life.  A society without mothers would be dehumanised for even in the worst of times they are witness to tenderness, dedication and moral strength.  AL 174. Pray:  Mary, model of commitment and love for mothers and children, pray for us.