Australians celebrate Mother’s Day on 8 May 2016. Mother’s Day is a special day to appreciate mothers or mother figures, including stepmothers, relatives, guardians, close family friends and those who would be mothers. The Council for Australian Catholic Women encourages you to recognise the contribution of women within and beyond families on this occasion.

To help celebrate Mother’s Day across the Catholic community, the Council for Australian Catholic Women (CACW) recently prepared Liturgical resources for use on Sunday 8 May 2016. The resources include; a suggested parish bulletin notice, sample general intercessions and a blessing for use by parishes, schools and diocesan agencies.

The Mother’s Day resources can be printed from the Office for the Participation of Women website.

Special Mother’s Day Blessing: Prayer over Mothers and Nurturers

Loving God, as a mother gives life and nourishment to her children, so you watch over your Church. Bless these women, that they may be strengthened as Christian mothers and nurturers. Let the example of their faith and love shine forth. Grant that we, their sons and daughters, honour them always with a spirit of profound respect.

Grant this through Christ our Lord. Amen.

More information about the work of the Council for Australian Catholic Women can be found at: www.opw.catholic.org.au