May 10, Fifth Sunday of Easter

I will praise you, Lord, in the assembly of your people.--Psalm 22:26

Mass readings: Acts 9:26-31 / 1 John 3:18-24 / John 15:1-8

Honoring My Mother

I'm named after my own mother, María de Jesús, and her namesake, Mother Mary. Growing up, one of my mom's greatest gifts to me was her love and devotion to Mary as our companion and guide on what it means to be women, but especially mothers.

With ease and sincerity, Mom taught me to talk with the Blessed Mother in the familiar form of the Spanish you, or tú, as an intimate friend. Mary hears and pleads for me. She also understands what it means to trust God with my most precious things -- my children, my marriage, my desire to serve God in life's everyday mysteries. In the words of St. Thérèse of Lisieux, ''The Blessed Virgin is the Queen of heaven and earth, quite true, but she is more mother than queen.''

Prayer: Mother Mary, be a mother to me!