St. Joseph the Worker

Dear Parishioners of SJW:

Happy Mother’s Day to all those who are moms in any way.  This weekend is a time to celebrate your presence in our parish and in the lives of your families.  Thank you so much for your faith witness, compassion, sacrifice, guidance, and love.  You enrich the world, our Church, and our parish!

Now, may I ask all those who have a mom to do something for me?  Hopefully, you are saying “yes” as you read this.  PLEASE, if possible, give your mom a hug or a kiss RIGHT NOW, or when you see them next.  If she is far from you, give her a call or a text/email them RIGHT NOW.  Don’t hesitate.  Do it as soon as you can.

Why do I say that?  This is the 1^st Mother’s Day since my mom passed.  I wish I could have one more hug, one more kiss, one more time to hold her hand.  You just never know if you will have tomorrow or next week to express your love to that woman who gave birth to you; who stayed up through the night when you weren’t feeling well; who gave you the biggest slice of cake when she did without; whose embrace could take away all the problems you were having at that moment; who listened when you needed a listening ear; whose smile could make everything better; who never forgot to make sure you knew you were loved; who told you the truth, and not always what you wanted to hear; who made sure you said your prayers; who thought you were still the best even when no one else did; and SO MUCH MORE.

I have said repeatedly:  GOD KNEW WHAT HE WAS DOING WHEN HE MADE MOMS.  Even if you don’t have your mom alive at this moment, say a special prayer of thanksgiving for her and for her eternal life. 

If you don’t have the best relationship with your mom presently, try and dig deep to forgive, reconcile, or ask forgiveness. 

Let us pray:  Almighty God, giver of all life, today we say “thank you” from the bottom of our hearts for gifting us with our mom.  How wonderful for you to bless us with her wisdom.  May we always pray for our mom, whether here on earth or with you, we pray, in eternal life.  Fill all those who are moms with Your grace, Your counsel, Your encouragement, Your infinite love.  AMEN.

Your Pastor who misses his mom,

Father Joe