Mother's Day in Vatican City (Holy See)

Background: Mother's Day, while not a traditional liturgical feast in the Catholic Church, is nonetheless recognized and celebrated by Catholics around the world, including those in Vatican City. As the center of the Roman Catholic Church, Vatican City often observes Mother's Day with a degree of reverence for motherhood as it relates to the Virgin Mary, the mother of Jesus Christ.

Date: In Vatican City, as in many other countries including Italy which surrounds it, Mother's Day ("La Festa della Mamma") is celebrated on the second Sunday in May.

Traditions and Celebrations:

• Papal Blessing: The Pope may give a special message or blessing related to motherhood during his Sunday Angelus or Regina Coeli address.
• Masses: Special masses may be held in St. Peter's Basilica and around Vatican City to honor mothers and the role of motherhood.
• Flowers: It is customary for children and families to present mothers with flowers, particularly roses or carnations, as symbols of love and appreciation.
• Family Gatherings: Family meals are common on Mother’s Day, where families come together to celebrate and express gratitude towards their mothers.

Activities:

• People attend church services to pray for their mothers living or deceased.
• Children create handmade gifts or cards to express their love for their mothers.
• Some may visit important Marian sites within Vatican City or pray the Rosary as an act of devotion.

While Mother’s Day is not an official religious holiday within the Holy See calendar, it remains a day where maternal figures are honored both religiously and culturally.