Today, on the occasion of Mother’s Day, we offer these prayers for all mothers and grandmothers.

Lord God, we give you thanks for the many gifts you have given us — the gift of life, the gift of those who love us.

We thank you today for the gift of our mothers and grandmothers.

We give thanks for our mothers and grandmothers who have died and for the unique way they have revealed for us your love.

We ask that you bless them and keep them in your care until the time comes for us to join them in your Kingdom.

We ask your blessing upon the mothers and grandmothers who are unable to be with us today. May they know how much we love and care for them.

We ask your blessing this day upon all mothers and grandmothers and all women who are raising children.

Give them the strength to live the faithful and loving lives you call them to live.

Protect them, guide them and keep them in your care.

We ask all of this through Christ our Lord.

Amen.

Originally published in the May 7-14 edition of The Inland See.