Fr Michael added a special family focus to his homily on the feast of the Ascension.  He explained, “The 40 days from Easter uses a symbolic number which means a certain length of time. This period of time was used by Jesus to continue teaching the apostles and preparing them for when he would return to the Father.  He promised not to leave them orphans but to send a helper to carry out their commission to go out and evangelise. Families are the first evangelisers. Together with and through the Spirit  they  spread the Good News of God’s love to those within and then beyond the family. Parental love by both mothers and fathers, or by those playing this role is their own unique way for doing this. How else will children understand that God is a loving parent?  All mothers are especially honoured today and that includes everyone who has been a mom, a foster or adoptive mom. You will all receive a special blessing. “ 

Reflect, share, scripture: “You shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you and you shall be my witnesses to the end of the earth.”   Acts 1:8.  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 ACTION.    

MOTHER’S DAY PRAYER AND BLESSING

Heavenly Father, thank you for the gift of motherhood and especially for our own mothers.   Bless them and all mothers (on their special day) in their families with all good things, especially health, joy, love and laughter. Keep them in your care and protect them from all harm.   We invite Mary, the mother of Jesus and our mother, to care for our families as she cared for the Holy Family and say her special prayer. ………… Hail Mary . 

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Also see Christian Unity Week reflection. Day 1 from the full May reflections.  https://marfam.org.za/2024/05/02/2024-family-year-planner-may-thoughts-for-the-day-theme-parents-form-families/